February 2024 News letter Part One

1. Welcome to the February edition of the WMS newsletter. We started the year with a good two days of cleaning, sorting and reorganising the assets we have in the building. We have moved and consolidated many hand tools now and those excess are available to Shed members for a donation and then they will be part of stock for either TWAM or the next WMS Tool sale (for donations). Thank you to all those who came along to help over the two days. It has really made a difference.

2. On a sad note I received a call from John Murray’s brother Edmond informing me that John had passed away on the last day of December. He had not been well for some time but he always made an effort to come along when he could health wise, and was a popular character at the Shed. Our sincere condolences go out to his family and friends. He always had a project of some kind on the go and one of his last was the completion of Alf’s Prosecco glass stand for Alf’s family wedding. He was keen to complete this in Alf’s memory. He often commented on the spirit of the Shed and how everybody was able assist with advice or help with the construction and he really enjoyed his time in the company of WMS members. On Tuesday 23rd January a number of WMS members joined family and friends at the Portchester Crematorium for John’s funeral. This was followed by the wake at Royal Naval Association Waterlooville. It was a chance for us to learn of the incredible life that John had led. Amazingly serving the military for nearly fifty years in both the RN and the RNZN. He will be sadly missed by all.

3. Monday 15th January saw the arrival of the roofing materials for the outside working area and recreational space. We had ten members waiting for the delivery truck to arrive to assist in the offload. Being rather cold outside we waited in the warm, which was enhanced by bacon butties thanks to John Skerratt and supplemented by a cuppa and a slice of Christmas cake. Just after 1300 the truck arrived and the material was craned over the fence, where we moved the materials in to the storage area. There is a long section that would not fit in the outside shed so is currently stored in the corridor on the floor. Please be careful when walking through this area. We don’t want any trip accidents. Thanks to all who stayed to assist with the storing. It is expected to commence the work around Easter time when the weather hopefully becomes warmer and dryer.

4. If you are a keen theatre goer you may be interested in a new play by Janette Evans called ‘Men’s Shed’ It is being performed at The Oak – Tichfield Festival Theatre 73 St Margarets Lane PO14 4BG. The play centers around six diverse characters – different chaps with different views but all with one thing in common: their love of the shed. The oil in the ointment occurs when a letter is recorded, challenging the right of it being a ‘men only’ institution.

The turmoil and heartache is shared by the boys and, in response, the WI join forces and save the day. I have my ticket and will provide a review for the April edition. Tickets are however available at the The Oak Tichfield Festival Theatre or online. Dates: Monday 11th March to Saturday 16th March Times various.

5. I often mention that the Shed is everything to everyone. A little known fact is that Jim and John (sounds like a pair of presenters from CBBC’s), regularly have a breakfast club. I happened to call in early one morning and found the club in full swing, both enjoying toast and something hot to drink. I must admit the smell of toast is one of my top aromas at any time of the day.